Four Laois areas, and indeed the county as a whole, are to benefit after €139,500 was awarded under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
The Slieve Bloom Mountains is set to get a smart cycle stop costing €36,000 while Durrow is to get the same for €22,500.
Cullahill is to get footpath improvements and extensions costing €22,500 while Woodenbridge has been allocated €22,500 for a car park to enhance local amenities.
While €36,000 will be spent to upgrade Laois tourism and amenity signage around the county.
Politicians have welcomed news of the funding that was announced today.
Charlie Flanagan said: “I am delighted that my colleague, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced the expansion of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
“This scheme has always been a vital source of funding to help revitalise towns and villages in Laois, however it is more important than ever in the context of COVID-19.
“The funding announced today will assist our towns and villages to implement immediate measures that will encourage people into towns and villages to shop and socialise, while adhering to public health guidelines.
“It is important we generate economic activity while keeping the people of Laois safe. The aim is to allow for social distancing and to make towns and villages more welcoming.
“These projects have been identified by Laois County Council in conjunction with local community groups and businesses.”
“The way we live is changing and we will need more outdoor spaces suitable for recreation,” says Minister Pippa Hackett.
“This funding for the Midlands will make it easier for people to head out for recreation and socialising, while keeping a healthy distance. The Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2020 has received an additional €10m under the July Stimulus Package to help with these types of project.”
Fianna Fail TD Sean Fleming said: “Our rural towns and villages have always played a huge role in supporting businesses and communities by providing spaces for people to meet, socialise and shop locally.
“Recognising their importance to the economic and social well-being of rural areas, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme has invested significantly in towns and villages over the last number of years.
“The scheme is now more important than ever to assist businesses and communities to address the challenges that COVID19 has brought to their towns and villages.”
While Leas-Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Councillor Conor Bergin, outlined that further funding should come on stream shortly.
He said: “Applications under the Standard Measure of the Town & Village Renewal Scheme, which will support the medium-term recovery of rural towns and villages from the impacts of COVID-19 are currently being assessed.
“The successful projects will be announced when that process is complete.”
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